The Latest: AP source: Biden to launch 2020 bid Thursday

Former vice president Joe Biden talks with officials after speaking at a rally in support of striking Stop & Shop workers in Boston, Thursday, April 18, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Latest on former Vice President Joe Biden and the 2020 presidential race (all times local):

1 p.m.

Former Vice President Joe Biden will launch his 2020 presidential campaign on Thursday, according to a person familiar with his plans.

The 76-year-old Democrat is scheduled to face voters in Pittsburgh on Monday, the person said, speaking on the condition of anonymity because the person wasn't authorized to speak on the record about private conversations.

Biden's decision answers the final major question of the early 2020 Democratic primary season, which now features more than 20 candidates. Given his high profile in U.S. politics, Biden would enter the race as a front-runner

The largest firefighters union is preparing to formally endorse Biden this week, with group leaders saying they will be "investing" heavily in the former vice president's anticipated bid.

—By Steve Peoples.

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11:09 a.m.

The largest firefighters union is preparing this week to endorse Joe Biden's expected bid for the presidency.

The former vice president is the most high profile Democratic contender who has not yet jumped in the crowded primary. But he is expected to launch a campaign this week.

Harold Schaitberger, general president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, says the union's board is meeting this week to vote on an endorsement. They expect to formally announce the decision sometime next week.

Schaitberger says the union will help Biden raise money. But they also plan to launch an outside group that will be able to raise and spend unlimited sums supporting his candidacy.